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George Mason University Marks Milestone with ‘Topping Out’ Ceremony for the Fuse at Mason Square

By iednewsdesk On Nov 14, 2023

On Nov. 3, university officials, regional economic leaders, government partners, media, and students gathered at Fuse at Mason Square to celebrate the building’s “topping out,” which happens when the structural frame of the building is complete.

Mason President Gregory Washington and Liza Wilson Durant, associate provost for strategic initiatives and community, spoke at the event, and hard-hat tours were conducted. Students and faculty demonstrated some of the novel technologies, inventions, and solutions that will flourish at Fuse.

When open—tenant occupancy is scheduled to begin in August 2024—Fuse at Mason Square, the headquarters for the Institute for Digital Innovation (IDIA), will transform the innovation landscape in Arlington, with opportunities for students, researchers, and commercial partners to be part of an immersive atmosphere of ideation and innovation.

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Fuse Topping Out photo essay by Creative Services

Fuse at Mason Square under construction — Fuse at Mason Square on the rise. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Crowds show up for Fuse topping out celebration — The Fuse topping out celebration was a hot ticket. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Gregory Washington at Fuse topping out celebration — Mason President Gregory Washington addresses craftworkers at the topping out ceremony.
Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Liza Wilson Durant makes her remarks at the Fuse event — Liza Wilson Durant talks about the collaborations that will be possible at Fuse at Mason Square. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Gregory Washington gets a tour of Fuse at Mason Square — President Gregory Washington gets a tour. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Robot dog demonstration. — Robot dog demonstration by Mason students. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Demonstration of prosthetic hand — Bioengineering major Gabriel Gibson participates in a demonstration of prosthetic hand.
Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

AI goggles demonstration — Computer science graduate student Quang Vo demonstrates a work-from-home virtual reality project.
Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Student demonstration — Bioengineering students present their capstone design project. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Fuse at Mason Square — Fuse will open for tenants in August 2024. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

George Mason University